Athebio AG is a biotechnology company pioneering drug discovery and protein engineering through its proprietary Athebody® platform. We develop next-generation biotherapeutics, including targeted delivery systems (e.g., LNP, AAV) and radiotherapeutics, in collaboration with leading biotech and pharmaceutical partners.
Role Summary
As a Principal Research Associate in the Protein Science team, you will play a key hands-on laboratory role to support therapeutic candidate profiling and the development of innovative protein-based biotherapeutics. You will contribute scientific expertise across protein characterization, assay development, and protein production while working in a dynamic and collaborative biotech environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform hands-on laboratory work in protein characterization, assay development, and protein production.
- Conduct therapeutic candidate profiling using biochemical and biophysical techniques.
- Develop, execute, and optimize ELISA and BLI assays for protein characterization and functional analysis as well as additional analytical methods including SEC, IEX, HIC, and CD.
- Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data; prepare reports and present results to internal teams and external partners.
- Perform small-scale protein expression in E. coli and purification to support analytical and discovery workflows.
- Collaborate effectively across teams, maintain high scientific standards, and adapt efficiently to changing priorities.
- Degree in life sciences (e.g., biochemistry, protein science, biotechnology) or equivalent technician training, with ≥8 years of relevant professional experience; industry experience is an advantage.
- Strong hands-on experience in microbial protein production (especially E. coli at MTP scale), protein purification, and characterization using the methods listed above.
- Strong background in biotherapeutic discovery and candidate profiling.
- Ability to work independently and proactively in a fast-paced biotech environment.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
- An exciting opportunity to take responsibility and grow professionally and personally within an early-stage biotech company.
- The ability to actively contribute to and shape the development of the organization.
- Exposure to and collaboration with world-leading experts in DARPin® technology.
- A diverse and multifaceted role within a highly collaborative and innovative environment.
- Join us at our state-of-the-art facility in the Bio-Technopark Schlieren, Zurich.